Doesn’t make the cut…the HP iPAQ rx5965

Category: Review on HP iPaq rx5965 Travel Companion

Posted by: 7-Apr-2007

Strengths: Multi-functional unit with Bluetooth, Wi-fi, good navigational software which makes it very easy to use

Weaknesses: Battery life is mediocre and performance is lacking when compared with other units in this price range

As the name suggests, the HP iPAQ rx5965 is a PDA which comes combines the benefits of a PDA along with a GPS device and brings together a very good combination of technology and usability. Together with this, the unit is also very well designed and has a stylish look and feel to it. The TomTom Navigator software manages to delivery accurate GPS information and associated travel related applications help in keeping the user glued to the screen.

You do need to look around for the stylus as that is not located in a very convenient place. If the position of the stylus does not bother you, then the battery life which is just very average is definitely going to get your attention and not for the right reasons….it dies down quite fast and that makes it a real problem area. Even after so many excellent PDA products from HP, this one too does not manage to WOW users.

The HP iPAQ commands a premium price and this also might work against it when it is compared with other multi-purpose devices…the performance also needs a bit of upgrading as it does not mean user expectation. Overall the HP iPAQ is likely to become an excellent piece of equipment provided the battery life and overall performance is tweaked to meet customer expectation. You can expect a new, improved version of the handheld very soon.